How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a major hassle because you're unable access your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks typically use keys that have the identical design as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to help in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone is locked out.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then presses a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service cannot make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that can affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require, whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines will typically need an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from databases.
There are also a range of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly however they can allow you to offer more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Continue Reading , an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key so that you can access it in the case of a lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you need will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional way of making an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at preventing theft than normal keys. These keys are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if needed, and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at a dealer.